‘Amsterdam’ lurches through a complicated plot

Can a film destroy its own appeal by working so hard and at such length to convince the viewer of its clever, entertainment value? Well, for me, writer/director David O. Russell’s “Amsterdam” qualifies as one sad example of exactly that. Its two and a quarter hours feels much longer, though the last twenty minutes offer the best moments. 

The story begins with promise in 1933 New York as on screen titles announce: “A lot of this really happened.” And it did, though that historical foundation emerges with impact only in the closing credits. Through voiceover narration, Dr. Burt Berendsen and best friend, attorney Harold Woodman, get roped into performing an autopsy on General Bill Meekins. His daughter Elizabeth believes he’s died under suspicious circumstances. As details emerge, WWI experiences and injuries significantly define Burt and Harold’s abiding friendship that will soon include Valerie Voze in post-war Amsterdam.

And so, a convoluted story begins with so many twists and turns among many characters that I’ll say no more for fear of spoiling its meandering unfolding. Still, throughout the film, a basic problem springs from the forced, self-satisfied characters who apparently find themselves much more amusing than warranted. This is a serious letdown given a great cast. Mugging shamelessly for the camera is Christian Bale as Burt, while John David Washington fares much better as Harold. Other cast members performing well but undermined by the strained plot are: Margot Robbie as Valerie, Taylor Swift as Elizabeth Meekins, Ed Begley, Jr. as General Meekins, plus (in brief, supporting roles) Michael Shannon, Mike Myers, Chris Rock, Rami Malek, Anya Taylor-Joy, Zoe Saldaña, and Robert De Niro.

What recommends “Amsterdam,” despite its considerable problems, is its social critique of racism and anti-Semitism and its democratic message still relevant today. That is, set in the 1930s, dictators Hitler and Mussolini stand ready to upend citizens’ rights. Race, religion, and the Constitution must be examined, ethical choices supported. In fact, Black American soldiers did wear French uniforms and enjoy more rights than in the U.S. Army. Some Americans did conspire to take over the government and ignore the election. “Amsterdam” argues passionately albeit ham-handedly for honorable principles. Check listings.